Today it was announced that Maria Grazia Chiuri will step down as Dior’s creative director after presenting her cruise and couture collection at Rome’s Villa Albani Torlonia. She has held the role since 2016. To reflect on her impact at the fashion house, Nicole Phelps spoke with Vogue’s Fashion News Director Mark Holgate and chief critic Sarah Mower.
Mower shared her early memories of Chiuri: “She was eager to learn and expand Dior’s vision—and she stayed true to that. Remember how she began with the fencing look? She wanted to show there isn’t just one type of woman. That was a feminist statement—designing beyond stereotypes. I think she made Dior feel more relaxed.”
After nine years and nearly 30 collections, her legacy lies in her love for history, craftsmanship, and exploration. Holgate noted, “She celebrated textile production and local artisanship, whether in Scotland, Mexico, Greece, or elsewhere, elevating it to the same level as French couture. She wanted to honor the beauty of craftsmanship, often highlighting work by women’s communities worldwide.”
Listen to their full conversation below.
Maria Grazia Chiuri’s Best Dior Looks in Vogue
“The Idea of Freedom in New York is Very Strong”—Maria Grazia Chiuri on Her ‘Dior New York’ Inspirations